What I Say and What I Mean as Someone With Bipolar Disorder

When you have bipolar disorder, so many judgments are made about you both intentionally and unintentionally. Many people don’t even mean to do it, and they don’t mean it to upset you. Yet, it’s hard to separate the illness from the person.

Regardless of my illness, I am a happy, impulsive, generally outgoing and optimistic person. I’m immature. (I never learned to “adult.”) I’m ditzy, and I love trying new things and taking on risks. Other times, I am sad, moody and irrational, and I just want to hide away, (Newsflash: I have PMS and bad days just like everyone else). Occasionally, I get angry, or I can just be an ass.

I have bipolar disorder and I have had both anorexia and bulimia. I have also worked supporting people who have mental health problems. I have degrees in Psychology and Social Work, and I am also qualified as a first responder, a fitness instructor and a gymnastics coach. I am a single mum of two amazing children and in my spare time, when I am able, I play roller derby and I am a pole dancer.